Six child agency staff fired for offensive jokes and sexually explicit email.

TORONTO -- Six staff members were dismissed and 26 suspended when a sexual harassment complaint investigation revealed that a number of staff at the Catholic Children's Aid Society of Toronto made "inappropriate use" of the agency's email system.

The investigation confirmed that a number of staff have used the e-mail for transmission of unacceptable and offensive material ranging from offensive jokes to sexually explicit material.

The investigation process confirmed the allegations and action was taken to discipline the employees involved in May. Out of a total staff of 500 employees, 38 individuals were affected. Six were terminated, 26 suspended for 3 to 5 days, and 6 received letters of warning.

Executive Director Mary McConville said, "No child pornography was discovered in the investigation, and the Society's protection services have not been compromised. However, the misconduct that did occur is completely unacceptable in a child welfare agency and a Catholic organization."

Operating under the Ontario Family and Children's Service Act, the agency relies on computers for a high volume of recording investigations of child maltreatment. Communication occurs regularly by e-mail between branches. Email between CCAS moves among five branches across Toronto. The agency has issued directives on the use of internal and external e-mail six times since 1999 advising staff to use the system properly, avoiding frivolous personal messages and maintaining professional standards at all times.

The Executive Director informed the Board of Directors of the situation at the May Board meeting. All staff were directed to delete any offensive material from all directories. They were also required to attend training sessions to inform them of the infractions and the disciplinary steps taken, and to review the Policy to Prevent Harassment and Discrimination.

Ms. McConville stated that, "the public must have confidence in this agency, knowing that all staff are fulfilling their obligations with integrity and in a professional manner."

Changes to the technology are being explored, to find an effective way to block the receipt of inappropriate material received from outside. In addition a more comprehensive policy on the use of e-mail has been developed, spelling out the expectations of proper message management, and the consequences of misuse. "We need to be clear with our staff that a professional work climate based on respect and equity is vital to our important work with children," commented the Executive Director.

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--Agency staff fired